Welcome to the North
We are here to support international newcomers in smoothly transitioning to living, working, and settling in the beautiful region of the Northern Netherlands.
Opening hours
Monday to Thursday, 09:30 – 12:00 & 13:00 – 16:30
The IWCN is closed on the following days in 2025:
9 June; 22 through 31 December.
(And 1 & 2 January 2026).
Our latest blog post
How to Avoid Rental Scams in Groningen
Groningen Walking Club: Baggelhuizen, near Assen (Drenthe)
Pub Evening Leeuwarden
Let’s Talk Dutch -Coffee Morning | Leeuwarden
Groningen Walking Club
Groningen Walking Club
Join our events!
News from the North
What to Do in Groningen This Weekend (July 18–21, 2025): Top 5 Picks for Internationals
Looking for ways to make the most of your weekend in Groningen? Whether you’re a student, expat, or traveler, the city has plenty to offer this July. From Latin beats and retro rock to yoga and alpacas – here’s your guide to the top 5 things to do this weekend. Latin Fiesta with DJ Marcel […]
Five reasons why internationals are of utmost importance for Groningen, Friesland, and Drenthe
Something remarkable is happening in the Northern Netherlands. Groningen, Friesland, and Drenthe – once considered peripheral provinces – are increasingly becoming international hubs. Today, these three provinces are home to approximately 72,000 internationals, or 4% of the combined population of 1.8 million (Make it in the North). In the city of Groningen, that number climbs […]
These Are the Most Promising Jobs in Groningen Right Now, According to UWV
Looking to jumpstart your career in the North? Groningen currently offers around 230 “promising professions” — job roles with high employment potential for job seekers and career switchers alike, according to new data from the Dutch Employee Insurance Agency (UWV). The Dutch Employee Insurance Agency (UWV) has identified around 230 jobs in Groningen as kansrijk […]
About us
About Us
Feel at home in the North in just a few steps
We understand there are many things to take care of when getting settled in a new country.
That’s why it’s our mission to provide a welcoming space where you can take care of everything at one convenient location.
25+
3
45,000+
We helped 45,000+ international people
“I have lived in several countries (USA, Germany, Russia, Egypt) but I have to say that I have had the best experience at the Welcome Center in Groningen. Thank you again!”
“How happy it makes me to learn that the flowers got there and that they brightened up everyone’s day! This was my goal.
You guys work hard, and I wanted to make sure you guys know that your work is meaningful and very well appreciated in the city.”
“I would recommend the IWCN for new Internationals, who would like help finding their feet, but also for those who have been in the Northern Netherlands, as the information on offer is very extensive!”
“The idea to have such an office to welcome foreigners is a formidable one and this is a good tangible result. I wish there had been such an office, and people like you, 13 years ago when we arrived. It would probably have made our lives so much better, especially the first years!”
